The Leipzig Gewandhaus and its Orchestra

Leipzig's international reputation as a city of music is closely connected to the work of the Gewandhausorchester. This world-class orchestra is based in the Neue Gewandhaus concert hall on Augustusplatz, and is rooted in the tradition of the Grosse Concert (Grand Concert) which was established in 1743. It is the oldest civic concert orchestra in Germany. The orchestra tours in Germany and abroad every year. Led by the internationally renowned conductor Riccardo Chailly, the orchestra also performs together with the St. Thomas Boys' Choir in St. Thomas Church, as well as for productions at the Leipzig Opera. The Gewandhaus concert hall is the home of the famous Gewandhausorchester and is a leading international concert venue.

The St. Thomas Boys' Choir

Leipzig's musical heritage goes all the way back to 1212, when Margrave Dietrich took possession of a church which he then "donated" to the power-hungry Canons Regular of Saint Augustine. The seminary which came with it was charged with training boys in the art of singing the Liturgy, and from these beginnings the St Thomas Boys' Choir emerged.

The fundamental structure of Germany's most famous boys' choir, which was directed for 27 years by Johann Sebastian Bach, has remained unchanged for 800 years, and their weekly performances of motets and cantatas continue to enjoy immense popularity among music lovers.

Performances in St. Thomas Church:
Fridays, 6 pm (Vespers; approx. 1 hour)
Saturdays, 3 pm (usually a Bach cantata; approx 1¼ hours)
Admission is by programme (price €2) which can be purchased at the entrance to the church

The Leipzig Opera

The Leipzig Opera was founded in 1693, making it the second oldest musical theatre in Germany.

In the late 20th century the Opera received critical European acclaim, twice being awarded the title of Opera House of the Year. The famous building is also home to one of Europe's top ballet ensembles, the Leipzig Ballet, as well as the Operatic Chorus, a children's choir and a ballet school. Musicals and operettas are performed at the historical Haus Dreilinden, the musical comedy theatre.